It is with great sadness, Sioux Chief shares the passing of Michael Dean Stallings, a long-standing member of our industry and friend to many. Mike was diagnosed with cancer in May of this year. He fought courageously, but with his wife by his side, Mike ultimately succumbed to his illness on July 28, 2021. Family and friends gathered for a celebration of his life in Mike’s hometown of Shelby, NC.
Mike leaves behind a beautiful family: His wife Donna, son Matthew, daughters Lisa (Craig), Jessica (Johnathan) and grandson Finley (Fin).
Mike started his career in the plumbing industry in the early 1980’s working for Plastic Oddities, holding various management positions while there. He later formed his own company, Stedco and manufactured a line of residential drainage items, of which Sioux Chief was a customer. In the late 1990’s, when Sioux Chief purchased the assets of Stedco, Mike took a couple years to pursue other interests. But Mike’s heart and head was always with the plumbing industry. Mike joined Sioux Chief in 2001 and managed their Southeast Distribution Center. Shortly after, he became the Regional Sales Manager for the Southeast. Mike advanced into the role of Director of National Sales for Sioux Chief in 2013 and carried out that position with great success until his passing.
Mike was so much more than an average salesperson - distributors and plumbing contractors considered him more of a friend and consultant. Mike always made it a point to show them better, easier and more efficient ways to do things, regardless of the sales numbers. He was also instrumental in product development, relaying feedback from the field with great suggestions to Sioux Chief’s new product team. To say Mike will be missed is a gross understatement – he is irreplaceable. He was loved by co-workers, customers, and competitors alike. All of us will forever benefit from having known Mike Stallings.
We will do our best to carry on with the same passion, integrity, and confidence for which Mike was known. Please keep Mike’s family in your thoughts and prayers.